Vale Vipin “Benny” Mohan
Vipin “Benny” Mohan, a much-valued colleague and friend to many CSIRO and National Measurement Institute (NMI) staff at the West Lindfield site, passed away suddenly on 17 June 2024. His death cut short a distinguished career that, on and off, spanned nearly three decades at those two institutions.
Benny, as he was known to his colleagues, joined CSIRO Telecommunications & Industrial Physics in 1996 where he co-ordinated the completion of the recently established clean room facility in West Lindfield, subsequently assuming responsibility for its management, operation and maintenance. This infrastructure was home to cutting-edge research and development activities, including superconducting quantum devices and biosensors, and maintaining its performance at the highest level was critical to the success of those efforts. Benny became an expert in producing complex sensor assemblies for the Biosensor Research Group, developing and applying advanced technical skills in vacuum deposition of thin films, microlithography and assembly of intricate componentry. This expertise was also brought to bear in producing optical thin film filters for the Optical Coatings Group, devices that were sought after by the likes of NASA.
After a number of years in business development roles in the private sector, Benny returned to West Lindfield to join the Physical Metrology branch of the National Measurement Institute as Business Development and Customer Services Manager. He led the Customer Service team which plays a critical role in coordinating the delivery of highly specialised scientific and engineering services to a wide range of clients in industry and government. Benny brought to the role not only a solid technical background, but also high-level communication skills and an unwavering commitment to customer service. With his outgoing and friendly personality, he thrived on personal relationships, championed a respectful and supportive workplace culture and was always mindful of the ‘human factor’ in decision making and communications, be it as a member of the branch management team or in leading and supporting his team.
Benny was also a loving husband and father who generously shared his pride for his family and passion for the good things in life with those around him. He will always be missed as a dear colleague and friend.
Written by Dr Jan Herrmann
If you would like to add your own tribute and share stories and memories of Benny, please contact alumni@csiro.au